A Plan for your Home Practice

I mentioned last week that I have been working on creating a daily yoga practice. I started off by figuring out my “why” – why practice yoga each day? (you can read that here if you missed it). For me, the answer is that yoga makes me feel stronger, more confident and I think, an all around better person.

It was so inspiring to hear your whys – Jill, Nan, Kimberly, Sylvaine, Maria and everyone else who shared! One person put it this way “it makes a better me for a better you.” There were all kinds of reasons – to deal with pain, stay fit, find peace and to live mindfully.

Whatever your reason, uncovering it can help you stay motivated. Once you have figured that out, then a useful next iteps to have a plan.

The Plan

It doesn’t have to be elaborate and is not set in stone. I know lots of people probably prefer to just wing it, but for me a plan of action is quite helpful. Maybe you will also find it’s a good place to start! Where, when and what will you practice? Answer these few questions and you remove potential excuses before they even arise.

Where will you practice?
For me, this is sometimes my bedroom but more often my kitchen! I like my kitchen. There is lots of light, the floor is not too soft (my bedroom is carpeted). It has a good energy and I spend a lot of time there! I keep my mat downstairs and often roll it out in front of the stove. There is just enough room that I can stretch in all directions.

If you have a dedicated spot in your home, that is awesome. But if not, it doesn’t matter. Pick a place that feels good to you. That’s now your yoga spot. William has some great ideas on creating your home sanctuary here.

When?
I practice at different times of the day. My favourite time is mid-morning (10 am) but 5 out of 7 days I am at work and this is not so practical! I have discovered that I am most consistent if I practice first thing in the morning before doing anything else. Now I am not a morning person, so 6 a.m. yoga requires a bit of discipline. But I know that this is the best time for me – it ensures that I get a practice in. And I have to say that this is a beautiful way to start the day.

What?
Another thing that keeps me consistent is knowing what I will do beforehand. So I will decide the night before. Sometimes I pick a video online or I make a little plan of my own and put it to paper. It may change if I feel different in the morning but I have a default to go to, I avoid waffling and take away an excuse!

It doesn’t have to be long or complicated. I aim for 10-15 minutes. And to simplify even more, I like to practice the same sequence every day for a week or two. I find I get way more benefit from practicing yoga a little everyday versus one or two longer sessions per week. It builds the habit, I feel good and it keeps me connected to the practice I love.

What about you? Do you have a plan or any secret sauce for your home practice?